Tavern Owner Helps Big Easy

A Washington bar and grill owner recently traveled to New Orleans to present a check for more than $12,000 to Tulane University. J.J. Quaade, owner of the Log Cabin Bar and Grill in Lacey, a suburb of Seattle, says she would like the money to help single mothers who are students.

J. J. Quaade brought her donation to Tulane in person, presenting
a check for more than $12,000 to Tulane President Scott Cowen.

She also donated a similar amount to help students returning to Southern University at New Orleans this spring.

Quaade says she wanted to help after Hurricane Katrina brought back childhood memories of a devastating flood in her native Korea.

"When I was 5 years old, we lost everything and I know how it feels," Quaade says. "I haven't forgotten that God gave me an opportunity. I work hard every day. I'm very happy to be here to help some wonderful people."

At a fundraiser this November to benefit Hurricane Katrina survivors, Quaade auctioned various services donated by Lacey-area business owners, including house painting, house cleaning and yard work. In 2001, Quaade raised thousands of dollars that she hand-delivered to the families of New York firefighters killed on Sept. 11. She also has raised money to help military families. Each Thanksgiving, the Log Tavern Bar and Grill holds a free potluck dinner.

"J.J.'s unselfish giving and act of kindness will benefit deserving Tulane students here in New Orleans and she sets a fine example of giving back to others in the face of adversity," says Jeff Bush, associate vice president for individual giving at Tulane.